Thierry Neuville, currently leading the World Rally Championship, regards Toyota’s Sebastien Ogier as his primary contender for the title, even though Ogier has not yet confirmed his participation in the upcoming events.
After a “roller coaster of emotions” at Rally Finland, Neuville now holds a 27-point advantage in the championship standings, altering the dynamic of the WRC title race.
This lead surpasses that of eight-time world champion Ogier, who is pursuing a part-time season this year. So far, he has secured three victories and three second-place finishes out of six competitions.
Ogier clinched the win at Rally Finland last weekend, gathering 24 points [18 on Saturday, five on Super Sunday, and one from the Power Stage], allowing him to elevate his position above full-time competitors Elfyn Evans from Toyota and Ott Tanak from Hyundai. Both Evans and Tanak exited Finland without points due to crashes, leaving them 36 and 31 points behind, respectively.
Toyota has invited Ogier to participate in the remaining rallies—Greece, Chile, Central Europe, and Japan. Although Ogier mentioned that he hasn’t yet felt motivated for a ninth title chase, a decision is expected within the next two weeks.
Nonetheless, Neuville is already focused on Ogier as his key rival.
In response to a question regarding his main competitor after Finland, Neuville stated: “Number two, which is Mr. Ogier at the moment.”
“He might not view it as a title challenge, but he has been competitive in the recent rallies and is striving for every point. Certainly, [I’m considering him].”
Thierry Neuville, Martijn Wydaeghe, Hyundai World Rally Team Hyundai i20 N Rally1
Photo by: Red Bull Content Pool
Neuville’s experience at Rally Finland appeared to be a matter of limiting potential losses as he struggled to gain confidence in driving his i20 N.
However, unexpected retirements from leader Kalle Rovanpera and Elfyn Evans during the second-to-last stage provided Neuville with a boost of 24 points, significantly aided by earning eight of the 12 points for Super Sunday.
Despite facing hurdles with his vehicle, Neuville felt that his strategic approach was beneficial given the circumstances.
“This weekend was truly a rollercoaster of emotions. We had high expectations, but it became clear during the shakedown that things were not unfolding as we desired, and it was going to be a tough weekend, which it indeed was,” he remarked.
“Our performance fluctuated, and the driving conditions were particularly challenging [due to wet conditions]. We quickly recognized that a strategic approach was necessary to accumulate vital points.
“The crashes of our two teammates on Friday added significant pressure on us since the team urgently needed at least one car in the points, but we continually adapted our strategy based on the situation.”
